Efficacy of different nitrogen doses and pinching nodes on performance of African marigold (Tagetes erecta L. cv. Karma-555)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26832/24566632.2026.110208Keywords:
Factorial RCBD, Nitrogen, Node pinching, Tagetes erecta L.Abstract
Marigold cultivation holds substantial religious value and commercial potential worldwide; however, suboptimal nitrogen management and improper pinching practices often limit flower yield and quality. This study aimed to identify the optimal nitrogen dose and pinching node for improved growth and yield of marigold. The experiment was conducted at the Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science, Tribhuvan University, Lamjung Campus, Nepal, using a two-factorial Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Treatments included three nitrogen levels (150, 200, and 250 kg ha-¹) and three pinching regimes (no pinching, pinching at the 2nd node, and pinching at the 4th node). The interaction of 200 kg N ha-¹ with pinching at the 2nd node produced the highest number of primary branches (16.67). The maximum number of flowers per plant (58.08) was recorded at 200 kg N ha-¹, while pinching at the 2nd node resulted in the highest flower count (65.15). Flower weight was not significantly influenced by pinching treatments. A positive correlation was observed between the number of primary branches and flower number per plant. The findings indicate that the combined application of 200 kg N ha-¹ and pinching at the 2nd node enhances lateral branching and maximizes flower yield. This integrated practice can be recommended as an efficient practical approach for improving both productivity and quality in marigold cultivation under similar agro-ecological conditions.
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